Which is the first and oldest mosque on the surface of the Earth?

Masjid-ul-Haram, also known as Bait-ul-Allah, is recognized as the first and oldest mosque on the surface of the Earth. Located in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, it is the holiest site in Islam and serves as the focal point for Muslim worship worldwide. The mosque surrounds the Kaaba, which is considered the House of Allah, built originally by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son Prophet Ismail (AS) as a place of monotheistic worship. The significance of Masjid-ul-Haram lies not only in its age but also in its central role in the Islamic faith, being the Qibla—the direction toward which Muslims pray five times a day.

Historically, Masjid-ul-Haram has undergone multiple expansions over centuries to accommodate the ever-growing number of pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah. Despite changes in structure, its sacred essence has remained unchanged. It is believed that the act of worship at this mosque brings immense spiritual reward, and pilgrimage to this holy site has been a central religious duty for Muslims since the time of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

Masjid-ul-Haram’s status as the first mosque is further supported by Islamic texts, which confirm that it was the initial place of worship on Earth sanctioned by Allah. Other mosques, like Masjid-e-Quba and Masjid-i-Nabvi, hold their own significance but were established later. Masjid-i-Aqsa, though highly revered, was built centuries after the establishment of Masjid-ul-Haram.